The Word in Focus with Dr Larry Taylor

Lowering skies and ominous clouds stealthfully   

Obscure once glistening sunshine as

Gentle breezes transmute into

Ever stiffening wind; weathervane

Swings abruptly; a chill from the north

Whitecaps appear, then breakers

Chop, salt-spray, stiff pennants 

Salute singing shrouds.

Tugging weather helm, fighting tiller

She heals to leeward, gunnel submerged

Plunging bow – launching, lurching

Reef the main, bail the bilges 

Every sheet cleated, nylon lines strain and stretch

We’re in for a blow

Too dangerous to jibe

We come about and furl the main

Outrigged jib, twelve-foot swells behind

She climbs and falls, rollercoaster like

Waves wash over the bow, the

Pump can no longer compete

Head her up

Put her in irons

Cast out the sea anchor

Ride her out

Icy rain slices, stings

Manila anchor line cuts the boy’s palms

His eyes sting with caked salt

Biceps and triceps strain 

Bailing with a bucket

Fearful, pounding heart

Like a bull bison facing a blizzard

His octogenarian hoary head

Gazing calmly into a 30-knot squall

Weathered hands, gnarled knuckles

Reach for the boy’s hands

All is well. I am here.